I have a reel question

[Scoot]

I'd like to get a couple of new reels. I've been a pretty devoted Deadbolt guy for the past number of years, but I am increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of their products. Most importantly I'm sick of replacing bail-springs every 1.5 years and I hate how they back-spin when it gets cold out.
What suggestions do people have for me for a new spinning reel that is functionally the same as my Deadbolt, but without the annoying problems that I mentioned above? I need similar size and spool capacity to the 25 and 30 models of the Deadbolt, a front drag (and a good drag), and a very reliable unit.
Scoot

[Jim W]

Scoot,

I was "in" to Deadbolts(pinnacle) when they first took hold of the market. Unfortunately, Too many problems, so I went back to my personal steadfast, shimano. Try their "Sahara" or symetre. Both have good deadbolt action with similar spool capacity, retrieve and ball bearings. However, I have yet to find me a reel that lasts more than a couple seasons, considering the use I put them through.
These by no means are the only semi-quality reel out there and I am sure you will hear other's take on this as well.

Until I had it lifted from me I had a stradic by Shimano that I was in love with. A little spendy around $115. I don;t think I will ever spend thatmuch on a reel again, considering how fast most go out!

Jim W

[This message has been edited by Jim W (edited 03-04-2002).]

[smallies24]

I've had similar problems with the deadbolts I've used as well. The best reels I've found that are comprable in price to the deadbolts are the shimano symtre and the diawa regal. Both are good reels. There are a lot of different regal models available, and the one I own runs for around $60. The symetre is about $85.

Regardless of which real you purchase, don't expect it to last more than a couple years, under hard use, if you only spend about $50-$100.

[Guest]

The new Mitchell may be worth a try? It has AR and built to take a whole lot of abuse.

I burn bail return springs up fast too Scoot.

The Shimano Symetry will also malfunction in cold weather, just like the deadbolt does. I had 2 repaired last season and they lasted a month. The new version in the rear drag has fewer failures by far then the older front drag version.

D*A*M makes a fine spinning reel. A little more $$$ but great reels.

I just received a couple of new reels from Shakespeare to give a try. They feel good and so far in the cold the AR has worked perfectly as does the Anti-Twist bails.

So I need to beat on them some to see how they hold up, ask me again in about 3 months.

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Backwater Eddy.......><,sUMo,>

Backwater Guiding
Ed Carlson
(701)-281-2300

http://home.talkcity.com/ResortRd/backwtr1/index.html

[Scoot]

Thanks for the input guys. More info. and input is still welcome.
I've wondered about the new Mitchells. I've not been a huge fan of theirs in the past, but something about their new model of spinning reel caught my eye. It has a classic, sort of old fashion look to it, but also appears to be technologically up to speed.
From what I've heard the Stradic and the Symetre might be good options for me. It's too bad the high end model doesn't come in simple gold or silver- I think the white is a little rough on the eyes. Yes, I know the fish don't care what the rod/reel look like, but I'm really spoiled with high-end rods from my dad (custom rod builder) so I hate to put an ugly reel on what I consider a work of art.
But, just to be clear, my main goal is to find a functional reel, not one that is easy on the eyes.
Scoot

[Guest]

Scoot or anyone, do you know a good reel repair person in the FM regon or close by?

The guy I used last year in not likely to see any more reels from me. Not pleased with what was worked on plus I am still waiting on 3 ABU's 7 months latter that only needed a cleaning and lube.

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Backwater Eddy.......><,sUMo,>

Backwater Guiding
Ed Carlson
(701)-281-2300

http://home.talkcity.com/ResortRd/backwtr1/index.html

[Lip RIPPER!]

I personally like the Shimano Stradic. I own 3 of them and I think they are as smooth as anything out there. I love the Super Stopper feature too when jigging and not paying attention when that fish strikes.

Backwater Eddy, there is a repair shop in Bemidji MN called Seagull Rod and Reel Repair. I've had work done there and he is pretty good. I don't have the number here but I could get it for you.

[Scenic]

Ed,

Mark at Bluewater bait also owns Seagull Reel Repair and does a great job on rods/reels. You can contact him at 218-444-2248. Best time to get ahold of him is either before 8:00 a.m or between 5 and 7:00p.m.

[Guest]

My personal favorite is the Shimano Sedona.It runs around $45 bucks and they last a good long time.Smooth drag and anti reverse.I have two that have lasted 4 years.I do abuse them and hardly ever do maintanence.I set them in the sand and bang them on the boat and they just keep working.I have used the Symetry and the Stradic and they only could take my abuse for two years.

[Jim W]

fishhead,

Interesting how mass produced products vary so much. I went through 3 sedonas in one season. You must have the batch made by the happy employee and mine was crafted by the disgruntled!!!

Jim W

[Guest]

It is strange.I heard nothing about how good the new Sahara is so I purchased one and it was junk.The bail wouldn't shut and it was very rough.I took it back.But I know guys that have several and swear they are great.It would be nice to see date codes on products so you can avoid those that are made on mondays and fridays

[rhski]

Scoot I have had my best luck with shimano products , but that doesn't mean much cause as I read these posts I realize I don't fish nearly enough....darn! I must ask you ......and I'm sorry for you .....but we may have something in common. When you mention rods by engel I wonder if you might be familiar with the following ....Carlos....Eldor.. Dent Minn. A fellow named Cordes who lives on Star lake....Last name same as yours . I think that's enough for now. If any of this rings a bell let me know. I sure would be interested in owning a custom rod (walleye 7') made by your dad whom I haven't seen in about 40+ years. Would really like to reaquaint if you are who i think you are! Bob

[uffdapete]

A couple years ago the day after Thanksgiving
Gander Mt. had a few Fin-Nor Ahab spinning reels they sold for $60 that retailed for $160. I'd never used one before, but heard they were a quality reel. It ended up being the best fishing tackle purchase I've ever made. In fact I'd dish out $160 for another one. Since that they've entered the under $50 market and I wouldn't take a chance on those but their higher end reels are top-notch. I fished with a guide on the Mississippi last fall that has gone exclusively to Fin-Nor due to their performance and reliability.

[Scoot]

Rhski,

I am that guy. Carlos and Eldor- my grandpa and my great uncle. My dad's Carlos's son, Rod. With the handle you carry I have a pretty good guess what your last name is, but if it's what I think it is I've never met you, have I? Why don't you drop me an e-mail at: [email protected]
It sounds like my dad would like to hear from you too.
Ed, I've sent my reels to a guy in Park Rapids. He's done a nice job with everything I've sent him, but he's none too hasty. I don't have a card, number, or name for you, but the guys at Scheels can give it to you.
Scoot

[Guest]

Thanks folks for the tips on finding a new reel repair guy!

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Backwater Eddy.......><,sUMo,>

Backwater Guiding
Ed Carlson
(701)-281-2300

http://home.talkcity.com/ResortRd/backwtr1/index.html